1.7 million Nepalis living abroad are in fear because of the US-Iran war

Kathmandu. The 17 lakh 29 thousand 287 Nepalis living there are under the psychological pressure of insecurity due to the heightened tension in the Middle East and West Asia after the US and Israel's military attack on Iran. Apart from the tragic incident in which one Nepali died in the United Arab Emirates, other Nepalis are safe.

Although the government reiterates that there is no immediate threat, as the possible extension of the war and the prolongation of the air blockade, the concern about the safety of millions of Nepali workers is increasing. With air flights suspended, military activity intensifying and diplomatic vigilance increasing, the government is also engaged in emergency preparations. The government has formed an "Emergency Response Team" under the leadership of Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, comprising representatives of concerned ministries. 

The team includes representatives from Home, Finance, Law, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Consular Services Department, Passport Department, Civil Aviation Authority, Foreign Employment Department and Immigration Department. According to Ramkaji Khadka, Head of the West Asian Affairs Division and member secretary of the team, the possible rescue strategy and continuous analysis of the situation has already begun.

• Wed, 4 March 2026